Llandrindod Wells is situated in Powys, Mid Wales. Llandrindod Wells is a small town nestled in the heart of the Welsh countryside between the border town of Knighton and the Mid Wales town of Builth Wells. As its name suggests Llandrindod grew as a spa town and became increasingly popular with those seeking to "take the waters.” In Victorian times the town's popularity was helped in no small way by its proximity to the mid Wales railway line and to this day Llandrindod's rustic charm and natural beauty attract hundreds of visitors each year. With a population of 4,943, Llandrindod Wells is a lively town with plenty to offer both its residents and visitors. Whether you are visiting for a conference or meeting, for a relaxing break away or have just happened to find the town whilst on a drive through Powys, Llandrindod Wells will have plenty to entice you to its centre and surrounding area.

Town Centre

Fortunately, the town has not been over "developed" and both Victorian and Edwardian buildings have been conserved. The town is home to many arts and craft shops, as well as other distinctive products and services. The main shopping area is in Middleton Street, just opposite the Post Office. Here you will find everything you need, from clothes to thimbles! If you want a break from the shopping, there are restaurants, elegant wine bars, and quaint little cafes where you can bite into homemade cakes whilst enjoying a warm cup of tea.

The weekly outdoor market, held every Friday, stands on what was formerly the railway goods yard. The market sells everything that complements the local shops, from eggs to fabric and much more still. Moving on to supermarkets, one of the town's two supermarket stores sits opposite the site of the outdoor market, making it easy for you to pick up all your essentials.

There are two town gardens where you can have a bit of peace and relaxation. Memorial Gardens belongs to the Town Hall and commemorates those who died in the First and Second World War. It is an interesting and historical place to visit whilst in the town centre. The second garden is Temple Gardens, spacious and colourful gardens with the added attraction of the Bandstand. The Llandrindod Wells Silver Band plays here throughout the year, being a particular favourite during the Victorian Festival.

Museums

Radnorshire Museum: The Radnorshire Museum is a small museum set in Llandrindod Wells itself, showcasing the development of the town, and shows the contrast between town and country life.

Festivals

There are many festivals held in Llandrindod Wells, including the Drama Festival Week held in May of each year and the Victorian Festival held in August of each year. The latter is one of the leading Victorian Festivals in the UK today and is held in the last full week of August before the Bank Holiday, and holds many different activities and street entertainment for both adults and children throughout the week. The Heart of Wales Walking Festival takes place in September and has guided walks for all ages and to suit everyone's tastes. The walks offer breathtaking and picturesque views of the countryside surrounding Llandrindod Wells. The terrain varies from gently rolling countryside to moderately rugged hills, incorporating narrow valleys, ancient hill forts, some riverside walking, traces of Roman occupation, and many items of historical interest in this little known region of Wales.

Attractions

There are plenty of activities and attractions to be found in Llandrindod Wells, from the crazy golf course near the top of the town to the Llandrindod Wells Sports Centre with impressive and modern facilities.

The Heart of Wales Farmers' Community Market: The farmers' community market is held in Middleton Street between 9am and 2pm on the last Thursday of each month. It operates throughout the year and provides a place for farmers within the surrounding area to get together and meet their customers.

Rock Park and Spa: The delightful pump room, which was built in 1860, is now closed, but it stills makes a charming landmark in the depths of the romantic Rock Park with its tall conifers and its fascinating Lovers' Leap. There is also a spa set in the town, which would have once attracted hundreds of visitors, particularly during the Victorian period. Believed to have contained sulphur, saline, magnesium and chalybeate, the water was used to 'cure' diseases and ailments, such as the sulphur which was believed to help towards eczema and diseases with the bladder and kidneys.

Llandrindod Lake: The Lake, found near the town centre, was purpose built during the 19th century. It is a popular attraction in the town and is a prime spot for fishing, attracting anglers, particularly since the lake has been drained and fish re-stocked. There is a variety of wildlife, including geese, ducks, and swans. The Lakeside Café, as well as serving food and drink, offers fine views of the lake. A place to relax whilst watching the birds on the wildlife sanctuary.

While visiting the lake why not look out for the Llandoddie. A magnificent piece of sculpture carved from the trunk of an ancient oak tree. What's a Llandoddie Well ... Llandoddies are the ancient water keepers of the Wells. Dewi Fach is their hero who saved the Llandoddies from the Grogs Invasion at the Battle by the Lake. Legend has it that those who touch the statue of Dewi will have a long and happy life.

Llandrindod Premier Play Park, a colourful and attractive play area that will keep children amused for hours.

History

Llandrindod Wells's history lies with its period as a spa town during the late 19th century. However, sulphur and saline were discovered in the town as early as 1732 and a farmstead was converted into a famous pump house. However it was the arrival of the railways in the 1860s bringing visitors by the train load that inspired Llandrindod's heyday. The number of visitors declined during the 1920s and in particular during the Second World War. Yet the townspeople and its council were determined not to let the town fall into deterioration and obscurity, and encouraged its rebirth as an administrative centre. The spa, however, was still in decline and it drew its last waters in 1971.

The ancient foundations of the church of Saint Maelog can be found just past the crazy golf courses. They were discovered during excavations whilst a new housing estate was being planned along Cefnllys Lane. The remains of the foundations were carefully relocated to their current location and provide a fascinating insight into the history of Llandrindod Wells.

Accommodation and Services

The Tourist and Information Centre in Llandrindod Wells can be found in the Town Hall, next to the Memorial Gardens. Inside the centre you will find plenty of information to help you on your visit or stay and a video of the history and sights of the town. There are also plenty of maps, leaflets and guides.

There is a wide range of accommodation in Llandrindod Wells including luxurious hotels, friendly bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, farmhouse accommodation and self-catering cottages. Caravan parks and camping sites can be found in nearby Crossgates, Rhayader and along the A483 road towards Llanelwedd.

You may make an instant secure hotel or cottage
reservation close to Llandrindod Wells. Hotel and cottage availability and
letting rates are confirmed online prior to booking. Simply click through
to the accommodation page, choose a suitable property, check availability,
including dates of stay, to confirm the exact room rate and reserve the
accommodation.